With the MLB trade deadline approaching in less than a month, the Braves are expected to be a major focus in the news due to their evident roster gaps and their aspirations for a World Series title.
At a glance, Alex Anthopoulos could make cost-effective and impactful additions to the outfield, an area where trades are often less expensive due to an abundance of options at the deadline.
However, with Michael Harris II expected to return soon, the Braves might need to allocate some resources to other positions, particularly shortstop.
As noted by Chase, the Braves need to address the shortstop position before the trade deadline. Orlando Arcia has struggled significantly, being the worst hitter in baseball for the past two months, and his defense has also deteriorated.
Arcia is currently the only qualified hitter with an on-base percentage below .250, due to his .166 average and a wRC+ of 32 (68% below league average) during this period.
Replacing him is overdue, but the market for shortstops might not be as strong as for outfielders. Nacho Alvarez, an internal candidate, is a 21-year-old with limited experience at the Gwinnett level, making him a less reliable option.
One league insider suggests the Braves should look to acquire an All-Star via trade. ESPN’s David Schoenfield recommends Bo Bichette as a prime target.
“Arcia has declined significantly, hitting .211 with a .245 OBP. While he offers solid defense, Bichette could be a major asset for 2024 and 2025.”
Bichette, discussed frequently by Chase, could be a valuable addition for Anthopoulos despite his current down year. Although his OPS is presently .619 with a .231 average and four home runs, he has a career OPS above .800 and is likely to bounce back. Bichette has accumulated 14.4 WAR over the past three seasons and achieved three top-16 AL MVP finishes during that time.
With Bichette under contract through the 2025 season, the Braves would have more time to develop Alvarez as a long-term solution at shortstop. A fresh start in Atlanta might rejuvenate Bichette, and it’s not uncommon for struggling players to find success with the Braves.
